Michael Carrick has to give the “talented” gem his first-ever start for Middlesbrough.

After a successful season with Brentford’s B team, Alex Gilbert joined Boro last summer. However, he hasn’t played much in his first year at the Riverside team.

The 22-year-old, described as “talented,” has only made seven league appearances as a substitute, but he has already made a strong case for starting on Monday against Sheffield Wednesday.

During his nine-minute cameo against Southampton, Gilbert left Carrick very impressed and provided the equalizer with a perfectly placed cross.

After the game, Carrick praised his young Irish winger, saying, “That’s exactly what we want.” In terms of game time, Alex has found it difficult, and there is no getting around it. He’s been frustrated, but that’s a necessary part of trying to carve out a career for oneself by seizing opportunities when they present themselves.

After he entered the game, the former Manchester United assistant said, “I couldn’t ask for much more from him.”

Against Sheffield Wednesday, Alex Gilbert ought to get the start.

At the Riverside Stadium on Monday afternoon, Middlesbrough takes on Sheffield Wednesday, who are currently ranked 23rd.

Gilbert might start for the team for the first time ever after his outstanding performance against St. Mary’s; he could take Isaiah Jones’ place in the starting lineup.

It seems like an obvious choice because he will be driven to really launch his career and will be bursting with confidence at this point.

Boro may find themselves six points outside of the top six, a far more manageable deficit, if they can win this Wednesday.

Hull City, currently in ninth position, travels to Leeds United’s Elland Road fortress, while sixth-place Norwich plays away to promotion-hopeful Leicester City.

Thus, teams that they hang out with could undoubtedly lose points.